"The Jungle Book," released in 1967, is an animated musical adventure film produced by Walt Disney Productions. Based on Rudyard Kipling's book of the same name, the movie tells the story of Mowgli, a young boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle.
As Mowgli grows older, the decision is made that he must be returned to the Man-Village for his safety, as the fearsome tiger Shere Khan poses a threat to him.
Guided by the wise panther Bagheera and the carefree bear Baloo, Mowgli embarks on a journey of self-discovery, encountering various wild creatures, each with their own lessons and songs.
Quick Facts:
- Director: Wolfgang Reitherman
- Producer(s): Walt Disney
- Screenwriter(s): Larry Clemmons, Ralph Wright, Ken Anderson, and Vance Gerry
- Starring: Phil Harris, Sebastian Cabot, Louis Prima, George Sanders, Sterling Holloway, and Bruce Reitherman
- Genre: Animated, Musical, Adventure
- Runtime: 78 minutes
- Rating: G
- Box Office: $378 million (adjusted for inflation)
Cast and Characters:
- Mowgli (voiced by Bruce Reitherman): The protagonist of the story, a young boy raised by wolves and destined for adventures in the jungle.
- Baloo (voiced by Phil Harris): A laid-back, fun-loving bear who becomes Mowgli's best friend and protector. He teaches Mowgli the "Bare Necessities" of life.
- Bagheera (voiced by Sebastian Cabot): A wise black panther who feels responsible for Mowgli's safety and is determined to return him to the Man-Village.
- Shere Khan (voiced by George Sanders): The main antagonist, a cunning and fearsome Bengal tiger who has a deep-seated hatred for humans, especially Mowgli.
- King Louie (voiced by Louis Prima): The ambitious orangutan king of the monkeys, who wishes to learn the secret of man's "red flower" (fire) from Mowgli.
- Kaa (voiced by Sterling Holloway): A sly python who tries to hypnotize Mowgli and eat him on several occasions.
Where to Stream
United States (US)
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Australia (AU)
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United Kingdom (GB)
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Germany (DE)
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Brazil (BR)
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- Rent/Buy: Not available
Spain (ES)
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France (FR)
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- Rent/Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video
Canada (CA)
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Disney Plus
- Rent/Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video
Production:
- Filming Locations: The movie, being animated, was primarily developed at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. However, the lush landscapes and vibrant settings were inspired by the jungles of India.
- Budget: Estimated at $4 million.
- Production Companies: Walt Disney Productions
Reception:
Upon its release, "The Jungle Book" was met with significant acclaim, both from critics and audiences alike. The film's animation, voice acting, and memorable musical numbers were particularly praised. Songs like "The Bare Necessities" and "I Wanna Be Like You" became instant classics, contributing to the movie's lasting legacy in the world of animation.
Critics lauded the film for its ability to appeal to both children and adults. The characters, especially Baloo and Bagheera, were celebrated for their depth and relatability. Shere Khan's portrayal as the suave yet menacing antagonist added a layer of sophistication to the film's narrative.
At the box office, "The Jungle Book" was a resounding success, earning a substantial amount both domestically and internationally. Over the years, its popularity has only grown, with multiple re-releases and adaptations, cementing its status as one of Disney's most beloved classics.
The film's influence can be seen in various forms of media, from stage adaptations to merchandise, and even a live-action adaptation released in 2016. Its themes of friendship, identity, and the clash between nature and civilization continue to resonate with audiences of all ages.